Global Analysis Report on the Somaliland-Ethiopia Maritime Agreement – Africa Links 24

An article written by former US Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs Tibor Nagy and Middle East expert associated with the Arab Emirates and a graduate of Texas Tech University Mr. Joshua Meservey, focused on the importance of humanitarian efforts in Africa and countering extremism.

“Despite many doubts about the new agreement between Ethiopia and Somaliland, it can still be beneficial for the overall market of the Horn of Africa, Egypt, and the Red Sea,” the two experts wrote. The report indicated, “Many countries have recently doubted the agreement signed by Ethiopia and Somaliland, which involves handing over a military base on the coast to Ethiopia, while Ethiopia recognizes the leadership of the Republic of Somaliland, which could be beneficial for all countries in the region.”

The report further stated that Somaliland is a leading country with a population of up to 7 million people living within more than 500 miles of coastline along the Red Sea. Formerly part of Britain, they gained independence in June 1960. They democratically joined Somalia, only to later break away and declare independence as the Somali Republic. The country faced challenges after Somalia gained control under General Siad Barre, who attempted to suppress Somaliland’s independence and led a brutal regime against the people of Somaliland,” the report said.

Furthermore, the two experts mentioned that Somaliland separated from Somalia after a decade-long war and established its government in 1991, striving for rights and independence. They emphasized that Somaliland has embraced democracy and governance while receiving support from the African Union. They also highlighted that Somaliland deserves recognition as an independent nation.

The report strongly considered the importance of the agreement between Somaliland and Ethiopia in countering the terrorist group Al-Shabaab, as well as the conflicts Somalia has faced with Ethiopia.